Tobernalt Holy Well
Tobar an Ailt
An ancient holy well in woodland on the western shore of Loch Gile. It was a Celtic-era ritual site, and during the Penal era Catholics secretly held Mass here.
Tobar an Ailt is hidden in a wooded valley on the northwestern shore of Loch Gile. The spring is said to cure eye ailments and headaches, and its rituals date back to the Celtic festival of Lughnasa. When Catholicism was outlawed under the 18th-century Penal Laws, worshippers secretly held Mass beside the 'Mass rock' here. The woodland has an open-air altar, a crucifix and quiet paths, and the atmosphere is peaceful. Entry is free. It is about a 10-minute drive from town and can be combined with a lakeside walk around Loch Gile and the Dooney Rock trail.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- The Model
- Sligo Abbey
- Sligo County Museum
- Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
- Lough Gill & Lake Isle of Innisfree
- Drumcliffe Churchyard (Yeats's Grave)
- Parke's Castle
- Devil's Chimney (Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird)